A fluorescent quinoline derivative as selective receptor for fluoride anions

The fluorescent anion receptor 7 based on a quinoline backbone and on amide and urea side chains is prepared and fluorescence titrations in chloroform reveal a high affinity for fluoride (K-a = 14400 M-1) over chloride (K-a = 3100 M-1) and bromide (K-a = 640 M-1).